Understanding Dayanand Saraswati and His Mission

The question asks about the founder of a specific mission, identifying Swami Dayanand Saraswati. Swami Dayanand Saraswati was a prominent philosopher and social reformer in India. He played a crucial role in reviving Vedic traditions and promoting social change during the 19th century. Understanding his contributions involves knowing the significant organisations he established or was associated with.

Let's examine the options provided:

• Brahmo Samaj: This reformist movement was founded by Raja Ram Mohan Roy in 1828. While it also aimed at social and religious reforms, it is distinct from the movement founded by Dayanand Saraswati.
• Chinmaya Mission: This is a relatively modern spiritual organisation founded by Swami Chinmayananda in 1953. It is much later than the period of Dayanand Saraswati.
• Arya Samaj: This organisation was founded by Swami Dayanand Saraswati himself. It was established in 1875 with the aim of promoting Vedic values and social reform. Dayanand Saraswati's core teachings were based on the Vedas, and the Arya Samaj became the vehicle for spreading these ideas.
• Prarthana Samaj: Founded in 1867 in Bombay, this movement was inspired by the Brahmo Samaj. Its main leaders included Atmaram Pandurang and Mahadev Govind Ranade. Although it shared some reformist goals, it was not founded by Dayanand Saraswati.

Based on the historical facts, Swami Dayanand Saraswati is famously known as the founder of the Arya Samaj.

The Arya Samaj advocated for:

• Monotheism, focusing on worshipping one God as described in the Vedas.
• Rejection of idol worship, rituals, and superstitions.
• Promotion of education, especially for girls.
• Opposition to social evils like caste system, child marriage, and Sati.
• Go back to the Vedas as the ultimate source of knowledge and truth.

Therefore, the mission founded by Dayanand Saraswati is the Arya Samaj.

Revision Table: Important Reform Movements and Founders

Additional Information on Dayanand Saraswati and Arya Samaj

Swami Dayanand Saraswati's original name was Mul Shankar Tiwari. He was born in 1824 in Gujarat. His call to "Go back to the Vedas" was not literal return to ancient practices but an interpretation of the Vedas as a rational and reformist faith. His major work is "Satyarth Prakash" (The Light of Meaning of Truth), which outlines his philosophy and interpretation of the Vedas. The Arya Samaj played a significant role in the social and religious awakening in India during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, promoting a sense of pride in India's ancient heritage while advocating for modern social reforms.